New lights at Newark Airports serve dual purpose

NEWARK, N.J. (AP) — Those new lights at Newark Liberty International Airport’s Terminal B do more than illuminate — they also are part of a security system that is watching you.

The lights are fitted with computer chips and are connected to sensors and cameras as part of a wireless network. They collect data that can help detect suspicious activity or aid in police investigations. The system also can aid in moving people and cars by identifying long lines.

The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, which operates the airport, tells The New York Times (http://nyti.ms/1nJSVN1) it’s considering expanding the lighting system to other terminals.

Advocates say the lighting systems can be used for a variety of useful applications. But others say the collection of more and more data raises privacy concerns.